Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back, involving processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which water is heated by the sun, turning it from a liquid into water vapor or steam, which then rises into the air.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor in the air cools down and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is the process where water falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water from rain or melting snow that moves over the ground and eventually flows into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released into the atmosphere.

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil, replenishing groundwater supplies.

Front

What is percolation?

Back

Percolation is the process of water moving through soil and rock layers, filtering and purifying it as it goes.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, driving the water cycle by heating water in oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces like lakes and rivers, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.